Texas Auto Writers Association Honors Fiat Chrysler

Fiat Chrysler Association US brought home more awards than any other manufacturer for its brands at the 2015 Texas Truck Rodeo on October 13.

Improved craftsmanship, powertrains, quality and performance helped Ram, Jeep, and Dodge pull ahead of the competition, which included a total of 88 pickups, SUVs, crossovers, and commercial vehicles battling head-to-head at the annual Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) event.

"The Truck Rodeo was extremely competitive this year with a record number of media and vehicle entries, so it's impressive that the FCA brands received top awards in numerous categories," said TAWA President Michael Marrs. "The Jeep brand SUVs continue to be favorites among TAWA voters, as every Jeep SUV won its category again this year. In addition, the Ram and Dodge brands also reclaimed titles."

After two days of on- and off-road vehicle evaluations considering everything from interior/exterior styling and off-road capability to the entrant's overall utility, value and performance, the 69-member Texas Auto Writers Association awarded eight of 24 available top prizes to FCA US brands.

Repeat wins include the sixth consecutive victory for Jeep Grand Cherokee in the Mid-Size SUV category and the fifth win in a row for luxury SUV Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, as well as three-peats for Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (Off-Road Utility), Jeep Cherokee (Compact SUV), and Ram 2500 (Heavy Duty Pickup).

Ram also took home the Full-Size Pickup award for the 2016 Ram 1500. Jeep rounded out its sweep with the 2015 Jeep Renegade in the Compact Crossover Utility competition and Dodge Durango reclaimed its title of top Full-sized SUV with the 2015 model.